The Luxury Coast & Waters Tour
Day 1 & 2: Arrival. Glenapp Castle
, South Ayrshire (2 Nights)
Day 3, 4 & 5: Isle of Eriska Hotel, Argyll (3 Nights)
Day 6, 7, 8 & 9: Kinloch Lodge, Isle of Skye (4 Nights)
Day 10: Torridon Hotel, Wester Ross (1 Night)
Day 11: Glenmorangie House, Tain (1 Night)
Day 12: Rocpool Reserve, Inverness (1 Night)
Day 13: Departure
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'The Best in Scottish Hospitality meets The Best Scottish Tour Designers'. From initial tour design to our expert chauffeuring, we handle it all, allowing you to sit back and enjoy your vacation.
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The Luxury Coast & Waters Tour
Setting the theme of this particular tour, we worked in conjunction with VisitScotland, Scotland’s National Tourism body, to promote the year of ‘Coast & Waters’.
Water is the lifeblood of our green and picturesque country, it is what makes the landscape so very special.
With the very best in luxury private tour design and the very best hospitality in Scotland courtesy of our luxury hotel partners, get set for a luxury travel experience like no other.
Think 5 Star castles, Michelin Star Restaurants, Executive Chauffeur Guide, Meticulous planning and attention to detail.
From the moment you arrive in Scotland you will enjoy the harmony of our 5 star service and the local charm we are famed for.
Day One – Your Hidden Castle Retreat
Pick Up – Glenapp Castle – Fine Dining
Accommodation: 5 star Glenapp Castle
Upon arrival at Glasgow airport, you will be met by your Thistledown Estate chauffeur.
Greeted with a friendly smile, your bags will be taken care of and your Scottish adventure will be underway.
You will travel West until you reach the beautiful Ayrshire coast, then journey along the scenic coastline until you reach the enchanting Glenapp Castle. A truly hidden place, you will spend your first 2 nights in Scotland here. A place to be inspired and where you will feel right at home.
This award-winning five star castle provides an intimate level of service with genuine attention to detail. It has great beauty in its period furnishings and interiors as well as breath-taking gardens, forest, and the seascapes that surround the castle.
You will use this day to relax and recuperate from your travels. There are plenty of activities on offer at Glenapp Castle, including sports such as archery, clay pigeon shooting, golf, and tennis, beautiful hardens to explore, and a premium spa where you can relax and treat yourself.
Day Two – An Extraordinary Private Boat Trip
Falconry Display – Private Boat Trip – Sea Fishing Eagle Experience – Lunch on an Island (Ailsa Craig)
Accommodation: 5 Star Glenapp Castle
After a luxurious breakfast, you will meet the resident Falconry Expert on the front lawn of the castle.
Estimated Schedule Below.
09:30
The expert falconer will give you an interactive experience with different birds on the front lawn and your first meeting with Ripley at the Castle. This will give guests the opportunity to take photos with Ripley, the African Sea Eagle.
10:30
You will leave Glenapp and make the short journey along the coast to Girvan Harbour.
Here you will meet Roddy, your private captain and skipper for the day. A real local ‘character’.
11:00
Set sail up the West Coast stopping at Culzean Castle for the Sea Fishing Eagle experience.
Culzean Castle is a sight to behold as viewed from the sea as you enjoy Sea Fishing with Ripley the African Sea Eagle.
This is a truly unique experience like no other.
14:00
As you travel these beautiful seascapes you will then arrive at the iconic island, Ailsa Craig.
Here you will spend a couple of hours and enjoy a Luxury Picnic Lunch.
16:00
Back aboard the boat again and you will head back to Girvan for a quick journey back down the beautiful coastline to Glenapp Castle.
Enjoy a relaxing evening in the luxurious surroundings of Glenapp Castle.
Day Three – The Wonderful West Coast
Dunure Castle – Loch Lomond & The Trossachs Sea Plane – Inveraray Castle & Gardens – Eriska
Accommodation: 5 Star Isle of Eriska Hotel
Another exciting day of touring awaits.
You will be picked up at Glenapp Castle and travel up the West Coast, soaking in the magnificent scenery around you.
As you meander along the South Ayrshire coastline you stop at Dunure, a fishing village which dates back to the early 19th century.
You will visit the picturesque ruin of Dunure Castle. Although the castle has been a ruin for over three hundred years, Dunure Castle is one of the most picturesque ruins in all of Scotland and it was once the main fortress for the Kennedy family.
If you are an Outlander fan, you may recognise Dunure castle as it was used several times during the filming of the popular TV Series.
You will then make the peaceful drive to Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, where the highlands and lowlands meet.
Transcend the rolling landscapes and rugged mountains before arriving at the tranquil Loch itself.
Loch Lomond is the biggest loch/lake in the whole of Britain, and quite possibly the most beautiful.
Upon arrival you will then board the seaplane and charter a flight over the stunning West Coast of Scotland.
Your pilot will take you on a 90 mile Seaplane Tour (45mins), heading West towards the Kyles of Bute and Loch Fyne, then over Kintyre towards the Isles of Jura, Gigha and Islay.
After your adventures in the sky, the pilot will refuel the plane and you’ll need a refuel too which is exactly what you’ll get at Loch Fyne Oyster Bar. Of course, it’s only natural to try the oysters, which are world-beating, but there are plenty other delicacies on offer, such as salmon, crab arancini, and Tarbert lobster.
Your driver will be waiting for you and will take you on a wonderful scenic drive through Loch Lomond to the town of Inveraray on the Western Shore of the stunningly still waters of Loch Fyne.
Whilst here you will have the chance to explore and soak up the atmosphere of this endlessly charming little town. If you fancy a coffee and bit of cake, why not pop into The Green Door where there are plenty of scrumptious treats on offer. After that you could pay a visit to the old jail, which is now a museum, or the charming Inveraray Bell Tower.
Your driver will then take you on a scenic drive West to Eriska, near Oban. You will spend the next 3 nights here at the 5 Star Isle of Eriska Hotel, a spectacular hotel on a private island, connected to the mainland by a delightful little bridge.
Here you can relax for the evening, making use of the fantastic spa facilities before enjoying some fine dining in the hotel’s Michelin Star Restaurant where more of Scotland’s finest fish are on offer, such as Loch Melfort Steelhead Trout.
Day Four – Little Bay
Oban – McCaig’s Tower – Oban Distillery – Castle Stalker View
Accommodation: 5 Star Isle of Eriska Hotel
On day 4 your driver will take you to the seaside town of Oban (Gaelic for ‘little bay’).
As you arrive in Oban you will not be able to help but notice McCaig’s Tower, standing tall and proud on the town’s skyline.
The Colosseum-like Tower takes only 10 minutes to walk to from the town centre.
Drink in the spectacular views over Oban and the neighbouring islands.
Speaking of drink, your next stop will be the guided tour of Oban Distillery, which sits right below the steep cliffs that look over Oban. With just two stills, this is one of the smallest distilleries in Scotland, though what they lack in size they more than make up for in character and flavour. You will learn all about the history of the distillery, which started making whisky back in 1794, discover how whisky Is made, and enjoy a fine dram in the Mill room.
As you route back up the West Coastline to Eriska, you will make one final stop to see the stunning Castle Stalker.
Stopping at The Castle Stalker View, the viewpoints here offer panoramic views of Castle Stalker, Mull and Loch Linnhe.
Be sure to have your camera at the ready once more!
Lunch Reservation – Eeusk Restaurant
Ee-Usk is a seafood lovers paradise offering the very best in fresh Scottish produce. They have lobsters and crabs from Luing, scallops from Mull, and langoustines, mussels, and oysters from Loch Linnhe. There is also a huge selection of freshly caught fish, such as monkfish, squid, and halibut. Just imagine tucking into that while enjoying unspoiled views over Oban bay to the islands beyond.
Stay & Dine: Isle of Eriska Hotel
Enjoy another relaxing evening in your luxurious surroundings. This evening, you will enjoy a fine dining experience in the Hotel’s restaurant, ‘The Deck’. Spoiled with marvellous views over the golf course and Loch Linnhe, this is the perfect spot to enjoy the wide selection of mouth-watering dishes on offer.
Day Five – Wildlife & Island Discovery
Lismore – View Stevenson Lighthouse – View Duart Castle – Seals, Eagles, Birds & Porpoise Spotting – Explore Tobermory (Isle of Mull)
Accommodation: Isle of Eriska Hotel
After breakfast your 5th day of touring will commence. You will be met by your skipper at The Isle of Eriska.
Towards the southern end of the island, you will see the 1833 Stevenson Lighthouse.
You will then cross to Duart Castle on Mull while keeping an eye out for porpoise.
This is a great time to look for sea eagles, the biggest bird in Europe.
Explore this beautiful town, home to one of the prettiest ports in all of Scotland, thanks to the colourful houses on the harbour front.
Cafe Fish is a popular restaurant to visit for lunch. Many other options are available too.
Once you’re ready, your Captain will take you back down the Sound to Morvern Point.
Spend more time looking for the eagles.
Then cruise up the Lynn of Morven passing Glensanda quarry, which has a fascinating history.
You will see even more Castles here too.
As you traverse round the top of Lismore you will then be taken back to Eriska.
After an eventful day, relax and enjoy your final night at the luxury Isle of Eriska Hotel & Spa.
Day Six – A Scenic Exploration
Glencoe – Fort William – Champagne Afternoon Tea Glenfinnan Monument & Viaduct – Ferry to Isle of Skye – Sleat
Accommodation: Kinloch Lodge
After breakfast, you will bid farewell to the Isle of Eriska hotel and route north up the beautiful west coast.
Visit & Explore: Glencoe
Your driver will first take you on a drive through the deep valley and towering mountains of Glen Coe.
These landscapes were carved by volcanic explosions and icy glaciers many centuries ago.
You will simply be in awe of the gigantic landscapes that surround you in Glen Coe.
As you approach the iconic mountain of Buchaille Etive Mor, standing in all its glory, you will be taken on a little de-tour along Glen Etive.
A single track road to the head of Loch Etive is a vision to behold. Those familiar with the 007 James Bond movie ‘Skyfall’ may recognise the idyllic setting.
You will then be taken to Fort William, here you will visit the 5 Star Inverlochy Castle for a sumptuous Champagne Afternoon Tea.
After lunch you will be taken West from Fort William towards the Isle of Skye.
You will make two unique and scenic stops on your way to the ferry port.
Glenfinnan Viaduct
A railway viaduct located at the top of Loch Shiel offering incredible views over the loch and Glenfinnan Monument.
The viaduct has featured in many tv programmes and films, including four of the Harry Potter films.
Glenfinnan Monument
Visit the iconic 18m high monument, climb to the top and stand side by side with the kilted highlander, taking in the panoramic views of Loch Shiel.
Built in 1815, it stands as a reminder of all the clansmen who gave their lives to the Jacobite cause.
The informative Visitor Centre on site allows you to learn more about Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Jacobite Rising (1745).
Ferry: From Mainland (Mallaig) to Isle of Skye (Armadale)
You will then make the short journey to your luxury accommodation on the shore of Loch-Na-Dal, travelling down a windy road to the foot of a gorgeous mountain where you will find Kinloch Lodge. A charming, historic hotel set in an incredible landscape.
This family-run hotel ensures the perfect balance of comfort and indulgence.
Dine at Kinloch Lodge, serving only the finest food in this award winning restaurant.
Day Seven – Exploring the Magical Island
Sligachan Bridge – Fairy Pools – The Oyster Shed (Lunch) – Talisker Distillery
Accommodation: Kinloch Lodge
After waking up in your majestic island surroundings and enjoying a delicious breakfast, you will be met by your driver and start your first day of sightseeing on the magical Isle of Skye:
Visit: Sligachan Bridge
Built in 1818, the old Sligachan Bridge is a perfect example of excellent engineering standing the test of time. Set against the backdrop of the Black Cuillin Mountains, enjoy the manmade and natural wonders together.
Onwards to Glenbrittle and the magical Fairy Pools, Skye’s most popular attraction.
With their crystal clear waters and beautiful waterfalls it is easy to see why.
You will walk 20 minutes to the fairy pools themselves, an easy hike, allowing you to soak in the magnificent scenery all around you.
Ancient folklore says that fairies swim in these pools and if you are feeling brave, you may wish to do so as well.
Lunch Stop (Quick Bite): The Oyster Shed
This special spot in the village of Carbost is the ideal place to enjoy a seafood lunch, with crab, scallop, salmon, and so much more on offer. All as fresh as can be.
Visit: Talisker Distillery.
Next, visit the nearby Talisker Distillery, the oldest working distillery on Skye located in the picturesque village of Carbost on the shores of Loch Harport.
You will enjoy a guided tour of the distillery, learn about the casks in their warehouse, see their 5 copper pot stills that give Talisker Whisky its unique taste. And, of course, enjoy a dram of their full-bodied whisky and the only Single Malt Whisky from Skye.
After a fun filled first day exploring the magical Isle of Skye, your driver will take you back to your luxury accommodation.
Day Eight – Skye’s Majestic Landscape
The Old Man of Storr – Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls – The Quiraing – The Fairy Glen – Portree
Accommodation: Kinloch Lodge
You will be met once more by your driver and start your next day of sightseeing on the majestic Isle of Skye.
Visit: The Old Man of Storr
Get ready for some famous walks and jaw dropping scenery as your driver takes you on a mesmerising drive north of the town of Portree.
You will first stop at The Old Man of Storr, a monumental rock pinnacle that can be seen from far and wide. A staggering sight to behold. Be sure to have plenty of battery left in your camera as there are photo opportunities aplenty here.
Lunch: Luxury Picnic
For lunch today you will be treated to a luxury picnic prepared by the hotel, which you can choose to enjoy at any of the majestic viewpoints you visit along the way.
Visit: Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls
Continue North to Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls.
You will notice that these ancient 90 metre cliffs resemble a pleated kilt, hence the name ‘Kilt Rock’.
You will witness both of these spectacular sights, Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls, from the same viewpoint on the Trotternish Peninsula.
The other beautiful sight here is Mealt waterfall. Flowing from the nearby Mealt Loch the water plunges from the cliff tops to the rocky coast below.
Visit: The Quiraing
Next you will continue north to the most northerly point of the Trotternish ridge, The Quiraing.
As the ancient landscapes begin to unfold before your eyes, your driver will take you on a stunning drive down the narrow road and hairpin bends.
With rolling hills and cliffs surrounding you, there are opportunities here for a brief walk or hike. Be sure to have your camera ready to snap the gigantic pinnacles of rock as they bask in their glorious surroundings.
Visit: The Fairy Glen
Next stop, The Fairy Glen, on the west side of Trotternish.
An otherworldly experience awaits as you approach this supernatural looking landscape.
A short hike from the road, these rich and vibrant colours and fairytale views all around are a photographer’s paradise.
Be sure to keep a look out as legend has it that fairies live deep within this magical Glen…
Visit: Portree
Stop and explore Portree, the main town on the Isle of Skye.
With local craft shops and a bustling fishing port, you will have the opportunity to interact with friendly locals and experience Portree’s thriving culture.
Have your camera at the ready as you will want to grab a picture of the brightly coloured cottage lined harbour.
Stay & Dine: Kinloch Lodge
After another truly memorable day of sightseeing, it is time to return to your luxury accommodation in the South of the Island.
Day Nine – Private Boat Charter Wildlife Tour
Wildlife Boat Tour – Raasay and Rona – Champagne Lunch
Accommodation: Kinloch Lodge
On this morning you will be transported to Portree. Here you will embark on a 4 hour adventure aboard your private boat which has a spacious open deck, a heated indoor cabin, and a toilet on board. We will explore the dramatic coastline of Skye from the sea, offering a unique perspective on the Old Man of Storr, the Kilt Rock, and Mealt Falls. We will visit the beautiful islands of Raasay and Rona off Skye’s coast and go wildlife watching in the Inner Sound. Here we should see seals, sea eagles, porpoise, and have a good chance of seeing dolphins. You will enjoy a champagne picnic lunch on to the privately owned island of Rona.
After an exhilarating day exploring by sea, you will return to Kinloch Lodge to relax for a while before heading to dinner at Duisdale House Restaurant, which is just 5 minutes from your hotel. This 2 AA rosette restaurant takes fresh local ingredients and creates wonderful dishes such as pan seared pigeon and hazelnut crusted hake.
Day Ten – The Beautiful Highlands
Travel over the Skye Bridge – Eilean Donan Castle – The Torridon – Guided Hill Walk (Loch Torridon)
Accommodation: 5 Star Torridon Hotel
On this day, it is back to the mainland and up the Scottish Highlands we go.
As you wave goodbye to the Isle of Skye you will travel over Loch Alsh via the iconic Skye Bridge, soon to arrive at Kyle of Lochalsh and the incredible Eilean Donan Castle.
Certainly one of the most romantic settings in Scotland, this picturesque castle dates back to the 13th century and was the original seat of Clan MacKenzie.
Widely considered as the most beautiful castle in Scotland, due to the idyllic setting at the junction of three different lochs (Loch Long, Loch Duich and Loch Alsh).
You will route north further in to the Highlands before arriving into Wester Ross and the stunning Torridon village.
Your driver will drop you off at your accommodation where you will be met by your expert walking guide.
We want you to get the most out of walking in the Highlands, so starting at 1:30pm your local guide will take you on a Guided Hill Walk to lesser-known spots with the best views around Loch Torridon and the surrounding areas. Your guide will have extensive local knowledge to navigate the best terrain for your abilities and ensure you see the most incredible scenery that Torridon is famous for.
Your accommodation for this evening is the 5 Star Torridon Hotel in Wester Ross.
Located at the tip of a beautiful sea loch this hotel was formerly a shooting lodge, now one of the best hotels in Scotland and has a AA 3 Rosette restaurant to its name. Dine at their stunning 1887 Restaurant, enjoying exquisite dishes, locally sourced ingredients, and an incredible selection of wines and whiskies.
Day Eleven – Coast to Coast
Rogie Falls – Fyrish Monument – Portmahomack – Tain – Glenmorangie Distillery
Accommodation: Glenmorangie Country House
On this day, your driver will take you on a captivating journey from the West Coast to the East Coast of the Highlands.
As you travel East you will stop at Rogie Falls, a beautiful spot just above the village of Contin.
Enjoy a short walk to the suspension bridge to view the waterfalls and the Black Water river in all their glory. Watch the water as it flows down from the nearby Ben Wyvis Mountain.
Rogie Falls are a sight to behold and famous for viewing leaping Atlantic salmon.
As you reach the West Highlands you will be taken to view the Fyrish Monument, near Alness, Easter Ross.
Built on Fyrish Hill in 1782, these imposing pillars stand proudly overlooking the Cromarty Firth.
You will make the short walk up the ‘jubilee path’, through the woodland before arriving at the summit and the breathtaking views.
You will then visit the small fishing village of Portmahomack.
We recommend you take the circular walk along the coast towards Tarbat Ness Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse on the mainland at 40 metres.
Many find the Peninsula is a very entrancing area to explore.
You will then make the short drive along the Dornoch Firth to Glenmorangie Distillery in the small yet lively town of Tain.
On approach to the gold barley fields, get ready for a warm highland welcome at the Glenmorangie Distillery.
Embark on a tour of the warehouses and the distillery itself, with unparalleled access.
Their expert guides will take you through each stage of the whisky making process that makes Glenmorangie so unique; from mashing and fermenting to the distilling and maturation.
The tour will end with a tasting of some delicious Glenmorangie highland single malts.
You will then be taken to Glenmorangie House. Recently renovated, this world-class country home will be your accommodation for the evening. A nine bedroom hotel with stunning views of the coast makes for the perfect Highland hideaway.
Purchased by whisky giants Glenmorangie in 1989 and later transformed into a luxury country house, this serene and beautiful place ensures an unforgettable highland experience.
Dine in their AA Rosette Awarded Restaurant and enjoy a unique dining experience in a dinner party style.
Day Twelve – Highland Nature & Beauty
Mermaid of the North – Chanonry Point – Private Loch Ness Boat Tour – Urquhart Castle – Inverness
Accommodation: 5 Star Rocpool Reserve Hotel
After breakfast your driver will take you on a journey down the east coast of the Highlands to the ‘Capital of the Highlands’, Inverness.
You will make a quick stop at the nearby village of Balintore.
Here you will see the Mermaid of the North, sitting on her rock – called ‘Clach Dubh’.
You will then visit Chanonry Point (Gaelic: Gob na Cananaich) on the Black Isle.
Widely acclaimed as the best place in the United Kingdom to see bottlenose dolphins from the land. Also, keep an eye out for seals, porpoises and otters.
The lighthouse you will see at the tip of Chanonry Point is still active and was first lit back in 1846.
You will then make your way to the village of Drumnadrochit, on the shores of Loch Ness.
Here you will join your private boat, the “Cluaran Dubh”, meet your skipper Gordon and embark on your Private Boat Tour of Loch Ness (approx. one hour).
You will enjoy stunning views of Loch Ness, The Great Glen, and Urquhart Castle.
Gordon, your skipper, was born, raised and still lives on the Loch Ness shores. He will enlighten you with anecdotes such as witches casting spells to protect Nessie ‘The Loch Ness Monster’ from cryptozoologists. A charming and entertaining journey with awe-inspiring scenery throughout.
As you depart the boat you will take a tour of the iconic Urquhart Castle, which stands high on the banks of Loch Ness.
As you tour the castle ruins you will discover over 1,000 years of history at this unique site.
The views over the loch and the Great Glen are simply stunning.
After an eventful last day of touring, you will be dropped off at the 5 star Rocpool Reserve Hotel in Inverness.
This special Georgian mansion oozes class. Admire the dramatic décor, quirky features and unique charm of this boutique hotel which ensures a final evening to remember.
Enjoy a sumptuous meal at the in-house restaurant.
Day Thirteen – Farewell
Pick Up – Drop Off
After a fabulous trip, visiting the finest hotels in the country, you will say a fond farewell to Scotland. Your private driver will escort you to Inverness Airport, help you with your bags, and wish you safe travels.
Tour Route
Our Tailor-Made Luxury Scotland Tour
Experience
Our experience lies in creating bespoke itineraries that meet your requirements. Our process for creating your perfect tour itinerary is simply; great communication and expert knowledge. From your initial enquiry we will acquire the key details needed to craft a beautiful tailor-made itinerary.
For example:
Number of guests, Travel Dates, Preferred Room Types, Private chauffeur driver or self-drive,
Specific Interests, Particular regions you would you like to visit.
